Which is a characteristic of symmetric encryption?

Symmetric encryption is characterized by the use of a single key for both the encryption and decryption processes. This simplicity allows symmetric encryption algorithms to generally operate more quickly than their asymmetric counterparts. The process of encrypting and decrypting data with the same key requires less computational overhead than asymmetric encryption, which relies on two separate keys (a public key and a private key) and involves more complex mathematical operations.

This speed makes symmetric encryption particularly suited for encrypting large amounts of data or for applications where performance is critical, such as in securing data in transit or at rest. While symmetric encryption is efficient, it does come with its own challenges, such as the secure management and distribution of the key used for encryption and decryption.

In contrast, asymmetric encryption, despite its speed drawbacks, provides other advantages, such as facilitating secure key exchange and enabling functionalities like digital signatures. However, these attributes do not negate the efficiency of symmetric encryption.